Spinal dysraphism: use of magnetic resonance imaging in evaluation

Three cases of children with spinal dysraphism are reported. Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) was used as a primary diagnostic examination. The ages of the patients were 2 days, 4 years, and 16 years. In all instances the scan gave a precise diagnosis as well as well as an accurate delineation of the structural abnormalities before surgical treatment. Plain radiographs and ultrasound analysis may not be helpful, and invasive procedures can be associated with morbidity. Technical ease, safety, and anatomic precision suggest that MRI should be performed as a primary radiologic examination in the diagnostic workup of spinal dysraphism.